Christmas is almost upon us, and despite the uncertainty of the pandemic season, several places around Israel have already donned their festive finery and decorated their Christmas trees, and are now waiting for visitors seeking to enjoy a little Yuletide cheer.
One such place is the central Israel city of Jaffa, which is positively brimming with lights and holiday decorations on every corner.
In the city’s Clock Square stands a 15 meter decorated Christmas tree, while Santa Claus gifts hand sanitizer and masks to all passers-by.
Near the tree stand eight massive, differently colored dreidels, which rest next to four crystal snowballs - each housing a different statue signifying the Jewish, Islamic and Christian holidays.
In addition, tours will be held in the city all through December alongside live and online performances.
A motorized Santa Claus procession will pass throughout the city to hand out house decorating kits, while the a cappella Siraj Band will perform Christmas songs at Jaffa visitors center.
Up north, the town of Mi'ilya celebrates the holidays with a variety of bright and colorful lights, spectacular Christmas trees, Santa Claus dolls, traditional decorations and a festive atmosphere.
In Jerusalem, visitors can soak in the joyful Christmas atmosphere in the Abbey of the Dormition on Mount Zion, and, of course, at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City.
Visitors can also visit the city’s lavishly fitted Christmas tree located just outside the city’s YMCA building.
Nazareth, meanwhile, boasts the largest and brightest Christmas tree in the Middle East as well as the Church of the Annunciation - which is overflowing with holiday cheer.